N.B. business magnate Jack Irving dead at 78

SAINT JOHN, N.B. – New Brunswick business baron John Ernest (Jack) Irving has died in Saint John after a short illness.

Irving, the youngest son of Irving Oil founder K.C. Irving, was 78 years old. He died Wednesday morning, a company employee confirmed.

The cause of death was not immediately known.

"Today is a very sad day for me as we mourn the passing of my brother Jack," J.D. Irving Ltd., chairman and CEO, James K. Irving, said in a statement. "Jack was a great brother and friend. We enjoyed many happy years growing up together – at home and in the business. He will be greatly missed."

Jack Irving was born Jan. 1, 1932 in Saint John to Kenneth Colin Irving and Harriet Lila Irving and went on to attend Acadia University from 1950 to 1952.

In 1952, at his father’s request, Irving joined the family businesses, where he worked all his life, alongside his brothers Arthur and James.

Following his father’s death in 1992, Jack Irving gained responsibility and ownership for the Irving construction, engineering and steel fabrication companies.

Irving was member of the Order of Canada and a companion of the Order of The Business Hall of Fame.

He is survived by his wife Suzanne Heather Cameron, his children John Keillor Farrer Irving, Colin Dargarvel Irving, Anne Cameron I. Oxley and six grandchildren.

Visitation will be held at Trinity Anglican Church in Saint John on Friday. The funeral service will take place at the church at 11 a.m. on Saturday, followed by a private family interment.

Online donations and condolences may be made at: http://www.brenansfh.com